In the United States, several species of deer are commonly hunted:

1. White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus):
   • White-tailed deer are the most widely distributed and hunted deer species in North America.
   • They inhabit forests, swamps, farmlands, and brushy areas across the United States, with varying subspecies adapted to different regions.
   • Hunting seasons for white-tailed deer are established by state wildlife agencies and typically coincide with their breeding season (rut) and/or to manage population levels.
2. Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus):
   • Mule deer are another popular game species in the western United States.
   • They are larger than white-tailed deer and are distinguished by their large ears, which resemble those of a mule.
   • Mule deer inhabit mountainous regions, open brushlands, and deserts. They are found primarily in the western half of the United States, from the Rocky Mountains westward.
   • Hunting seasons and regulations for mule deer are also managed by state wildlife agencies.
3. Black-tailed Deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus):
   • Black-tailed deer are a subspecies of mule deer found primarily along the Pacific coast from California through the Pacific Northwest into Alaska.
   • They prefer dense forests and brushy areas, often in close proximity to water.
   • Black-tailed deer hunting regulations are established by state authorities in the states where they are found.
4. Sitka Deer (Odocoileus hemionus sitkensis):
   • Sitka deer, a subspecies of black-tailed deer, are found primarily in the coastal rainforests of southeastern Alaska.
   • They are smaller in size compared to mainland black-tailed deer.
   • Sitka deer are an important game species in Alaska, with hunting regulations set by state wildlife management agencies.
5. Key Deer (Odocoileus virginianus clavium):
   • Key deer are a subspecies of white-tailed deer found only in the Florida Keys.
   • They are the smallest subspecies of white-tailed deer, adapted to the subtropical environment of the Florida Keys.
   • Hunting of Key deer is strictly regulated due to their endangered status.

These deer species are subject to hunting regulations and management practices established by state wildlife agencies to ensure sustainable populations and conservation efforts. Hunting seasons, bag limits, and specific regulations vary from state to state and sometimes within different regions of a state. It’s important for hunters to familiarize themselves with local regulations before embarking on any hunting activities.